With fall just around the corner, I long for the crisp air and the breathtaking kaleidoscope of colors. The green summer leaves change to red, orange and gold, and we are given a gentle nudge to embrace the change of the season, as well as the sights and flavors around us.

Apples enter the spotlight, taking center stage and claiming the role of fall’s shining stars. Apple orchards open and welcome families to pick fruit, and farmers’ markets overflow with many of the varieties Nature offers. Whether sweet, tart, crunchy or tender, each bite of an apple is an invitation to slow down, enjoy the season and bid farewell to summer.